Massage Therapy and Accessibility: Creating an Inclusive Experience for All Clients
At A Better Body, we believe that massage therapy should be accessible to everyone. Whether someone lives with a disability, has limited mobility, or simply needs additional support to feel comfortable, we are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and healing space for all clients.
Understanding the Importance of Accessibility in Massage Therapy
Massage therapy offers numerous benefits: pain relief, stress reduction, improved circulation, and emotional balance, to name a few. For clients with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities, these benefits can be especially impactful in supporting quality of life. That’s why it’s essential that massage therapy spaces and services are inclusive and welcoming to all individuals, regardless of ability.
Common Barriers – and How We Address Them
Clients with disabilities may face challenges when seeking massage therapy, such as:
Limited facility access (ramps, door widths, restrooms)
Difficulty transferring to a massage table
Communication barriers (non-verbal clients, sensory sensitivity)
Anxiety about being judged or misunderstood
At A Better Body, we proactively work to reduce or eliminate these barriers:
1. ADA-Compliant Space
Our clinic is wheelchair accessible with wide doorways, ramps, and a restroom that accommodates mobility aids. We ensure the treatment room has space to navigate easily and that our tables can be adjusted to various heights.
2. Adaptive Positioning Options
We understand that not everyone can lie face down or flat on a table. We offer massage in side-lying positions, in a seated chair, or even in a zero-gravity recliner depending on individual needs.
3. Customized Sessions
We take the time to listen to each client’s preferences, medical history, and comfort level. Whether that means extra pillows for support, adjusting pressure levels, or avoiding certain areas, every session is tailored to the client’s body and goals.
4. Open Communication
We welcome caregivers or translators if needed and offer intake forms in multiple formats (verbal, written, or digital). We respect the way each client communicates whether that’s spoken words, gestures, or written notes.
5. Sensory Sensitivity Awareness
For clients with autism, PTSD, or sensory processing disorders, we offer a calming environment with soft lighting, unscented oils, minimal background noise, and the option to have a parent or caregiver present in the treatment room upon request.
What Clients Can Expect
If you or a loved one has a disability and is considering massage therapy, know that your comfort and dignity are our top priorities. We encourage clients to:
Call ahead with any questions or specific requests
Share any mobility, sensory, or medical concerns
Let us know how we can make the session more supportive
You're Always Welcome Here
Every body is a good body. At A Better Body, our mission is to make therapeutic touch accessible, healing, and empowering for everyone regardless of ability, age, or circumstance. If you or someone you know could benefit from a customized, compassionate approach to massage therapy, we’re here to help.Click HERE to book you next session
